Fri Oct 11 15:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Indian Prime Minister Modi Gifts Cultural Treasures at ASEAN Summit

**Vientiane, Laos:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Laos for the ASEAN Summit 2024, presented a collection of unique gifts showcasing Indian craftsmanship to world leaders. The gesture served to underscore the deep cultural ties between India and the ASEAN nations.

Modi gifted a Buddha head, crafted from high-quality Kadamwood, to Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. His wife, Vandara Siphandone, received a malachite and camel bone box featuring a Radha-Krishna theme. Lao President Naly Sisoulith was presented with a Patan Patola scarf, a vibrant double ikat textile known for its intricate designs.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was gifted a low-height wooden table from Ladakh, adorned with intricate carvings representing the Himalayan region’s cultural heritage. Japan’s new Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, received a silver peacock figurine featuring intricate West Bengal nakkashi carvings.

The gifts, each reflecting India’s rich artistic heritage, further cemented the strong cultural bonds between India and the ASEAN nations.

In a significant recognition, Modi was the first leader invited to address the East Asia Summit (EAS) after the host and incoming chair. He is also the only leader to have participated in nine out of the 19 EAS summits, highlighting India’s consistent engagement in the regional forum.

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Fri Oct 11 15:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Modi Gifts Unique Indian Crafts to World Leaders at ASEAN Summit

**Vientiane, Laos:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a unique range of handcrafted gifts to world leaders attending the ASEAN Summit 2024, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and strengthening ties with the region.

During his two-day visit, PM Modi gifted a Buddha head crafted from Kadamwood to Lao PM Sonexay Siphandone, while his wife, Vandara Siphandone, received a malachite and camel bone box adorned with a Radha-Krishna theme.

Lao President Naly Sisoulith was presented with a Patan Patola scarf, a traditional double ikat textile from Gujarat, known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra received a low-height wooden table from Ladakh, featuring vibrant carvings that embody the cultural essence of the Himalayan region.

Newly elected Japanese Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, was gifted a silver peacock figurine with intricate carvings from West Bengal.

Each gift, reflecting India’s craftsmanship and artistic heritage, highlights the deep cultural ties between India and ASEAN nations.

PM Modi was also the first leader to be invited to address the East Asia Summit (EAS) after the host and incoming chair. He has participated in the most EAS meetings – nine out of 19 – making him a prominent figure in the forum.

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